Q&As on the impact of the slash and flooding

A community meeting was held in Tolaga Bay on 20 June.Here's the meeting notes

Investigation into debris (slash)

We’re continuing our investigation on the woody debris. We can’t comment on compliance of forestry companies or determine who is at fault until we have completed the investigation.If we do identify any measures that need to be taken to make areas safe we will take action immediately.We expect the investigation will be completed in early September and we’ll be able to provide further information which could include the outcomes and further actions to betaken. We will communicate any updates and information via Uawanui and Te Aitanga a Hauiti Centre of Excellence and community link groups.

Ministry of Social Development have lots of ways they can help those affected by the flooding. You don't need to be on a benefit. They may be able to help with urgent and unexpected costs such as petrol, food and furniture. Check their website for details(external link)

If the flooding has affected your work, welfare or income, work and Income may provide financial assistance. This may include the unemployment benefit, emergency benefit and special needs grants. Contact Work and Income on 0800559009.

Recovery measures include:

Enhanced Taskforce Green are supervised crews that help rural communities get back on their feet with clean-up work on farms and rural properties. To register for Enhanced Taskforce Green, contact the Rural Support Trust 0800 787 254.

Rural Assistance Payments - provide extra help for essential living costs to those farming individuals and families who need it when affected by natural disasters. There are conditions which must be met and payments are the same as Jobseeker Support. Contact the Rural Support Trust 0800 787 254 for more information.

Information on being prepared

It's important that you're prepared for a disaster. Get ready now so that you're better prepared to cope on your own for up to 3 days or more.

As a minimum, everyone needs:

♦ enough food in your home to last 2-3 days.♦ know where to get water, if your usual supply is not available. ♦ alternative lighting - a torch with spare batteries or a wind up one, gas lantern or light-sticks. ♦ a battery operated or wind up radio and spare batteries - don't forget your car radio as a last resort. ♦ a first-aid kit, make sure you have essential medications. ♦ blankets, survival blankets or warm waterproof clothing. ♦ alternative cooking methods - BBQ or gas cooker. ♦ to store important family documents where you can get them easily♦ an emergency plan - where to meet family and how to contact one another if separated.